Demian Arriaga

Demian Arriaga is a drummer and percussionist with over two decades of experience performing, recording, and teaching around the world. His unique energy and rhythm-forward approach have taken him to stages and studios with artists such as Miley Cyrus, Weezer, Lisa, The Jonas Brothers, Carly Rae Jepsen, Tori Kelly, Orianthi, and Streetlight Manifesto, among many others.

As an educator, Demian spent a decade teaching at School of Rock, where he brought his passion for rhythm, creativity, and mentorship to a hands-on, band-focused environment that inspires musicians of all levels. He’s taught hundreds of students privately and has led guest sessions and masterclasses at institutions such as SAE Institute (Cologne), ArtEz Conservatory, and Haarlem Conservatory in The Netherlands and many drum/percussion clinics in his native Caracas, Venezuela. He also serves as a mentor for Berklee College of Music’s Mentorship Program, continuing to guide the next generation of musicians toward finding their own voice.

I’ve been teaching for over 20 years, and it remains the most rewarding part of what I do. My goal is to help you feel motivated, confident, and connected to the music you’re making. Every lesson is tailored to YOU... your goals, your interests, and the way you learn. While we’ll address essentials like posture and technique when needed, the focus is always musical: songs, grooves, feel, and intention. Whether you’re a complete beginner, a curious non-percussionist, or an experienced musician looking for a fresh perspective, my aim is to help you move from “knowing what to play” to understanding why it works and how to make it your own.